Geographical range of small cats (Felinae) in the Kazakh part of Tien Shan

Abstract

This article provides insight into the distribution, elevational occurrence, and habitat associations of three species in the Kazakh part of the Tien Shan Mountains: the Turkestan lynx (Lynx lynx isabellinus), Asiatic wildcat (Felis lybica ornata), and Pallas’s cat (Otocolobus manul). From January 2012 until July 2025, we compiled 221 records based on camera trapping, visual observations, snow tracking, and questionnaire data, classified according to SCALP criteria. Research results revealed the Turkestan lynx to be the most widely distributed species, occurring across all the main river valleys and gorges of the Western and Northern Tien Shan and occupying various altitudinal zones and habitat types, with a predominance of coniferous forests and shrubs. The Asiatic wildcat was primarily associated with foothills, river valleys, riparian forests, and shrublands, but obtained camera-trap records indicate residence and stable population within the forest belt. Pallas’s cat was observed mainly in the Northern Tien Shan with isolated records in the Karatau Mountains, and occupied low mountains with smooth slopes, low hills, cliffs and rock outcrops. Maintaining habitat integrity and conducting long-term monitoring will be essential for assessing population dynamics and maintaining species diversity of Felidae  under environmental change.